Category Archives: custom backdrops

Godspell

Prepare Ye for Godspell Backdrops 

custom backdrops, Godspell

Godspell is a time-honored musical that touches on the themes of life, loyalty, and love as told in a series of parables, according to the Gospel of Matthew. The musical, which first came to Broadway in 1971, was one of the first musical theatre offerings from composer Stephen Schwartz who would later go on to write such well-known hits as Wicked, Pippin, and Children of Eden.

The Story of Godspell 

Godspell has been a favorite musical of theater groups and professionals for decades as it can be adapted to different audiences and settings. The story of Godspell follows a series of well-known parables that are found in the Gospel of Matthew and are told by philosophers and thinkers as well as by Jesus directly. The cast uses many different acting methods such as comedy, pantomime, and physical humor to tell the stories. 

The music of Godspell can be described as both modern rock and rock opera depending upon the angle that each production takes. Musical favorites include “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord,” “Learn Your Lessons Well,” “All for the Best,” “All Good Gifts,” “Turn Back, O Man,” and “By My Side.”

As the parables continue throughout the performance, the last days of Jesus draw near and each cast member must deal with their own questions and doubts. Some of the most beloved, yet haunting scenes by the small cast are the Last Supper and the Crucifixion of Christ which leave audiences in tears. 

Backdrops for Godspell 

One of the more unique aspects of this spiritual and religious performance is that it can be set practically anywhere from an urban setting to one at a neighborhood playground thus emphasizing the concept that we are all children of Christ no matter where we are in the world. 

Here are a few of our suggestions for potential backdrops that include urban and suburban settings as well as schools and outdoor locations. Choose what works best for your theater group and get started practicing this amazing and beloved musical. 

A popular option for a backdrop is the city skyline. We suggest a few that may work for your organization’s performance. This Night Skyline Backdrop #2451 depicts a night skyline with a bridge and the reflection of city lights in the sky. This is perfect for the setting of a modern-day Godspell performance. 

Daytime NYC

A daytime setting is also an option. This Daytime New York Skyline Backdrop #2226 shows an image of Downtown Manhattan with the Empire State Building prominently displayed. 

Roman backdropFor groups that wish to have a more historical twist to the performance, there are several backdrops that depict ancient cities and scenes. This Roman Street Backdrop #2213 gives the appearance of being in olden times with the Colonnade looking out over Rome. 

Another option is the backdrop of the Egyptian Landscape #1970. This one shows the Pyramids and the Sphinx set against a light blue sky. 

To explore all of the backdrops appropriate for Godspell visit the show suggestion page and get your order started. 

 

Need A Custom Backdrop? We Do That!

Backdrops, custom backdrops

I think we can all agree that a professionally created backdrop can determine the tone, mood, and setting of a performance, whether it’s on Broadway or your local dance school recital. 

We shared in one of our recent blogs the impact of backdrops. We stated that scenery such as a backdrop can, “truly set the stage for every performance or presentation. The effect is that a backdrop can create a mood that ranges from a dark, scary tone to a bright, happy one and everything in between.”

Knowing the importance of backdrops is one thing, finding one that fits your specific needs is another. What if your performance is not a typical one? What if you have scoured all your resources and can’t seem to find one that fits your musical, performance, dance recital, or business needs? 

Backdrops by Charles Stewart can create a custom backdrop that suits all of your needs. 

Why Are Custom Backdrops Needed? 

We are often asked why a custom backdrop would be needed if we have so many in our inventory. The answer is two fold. 

One main reason an organization may need a custom made backdrop would be to make the scene and color palette fit the brand of the company being presented. 

Another reason a group may want a custom backdrop includes the idea that the show may be unique or have special needs like being held outdoors as many performances have shifted to in this age of coronavirus. 

A Word About Our Custom Backdrops 

We have the production capabilities to create any backdrop you can imagine. We do not, however, design the backdrops. We leave that artistic aspect to our clients. 

We will take your designs and give some input, if needed. But, in general, we will create an exact duplicate of the design you submit. We caution all of our clients to be sure the design is exactly as you want it before making your final decision on production. 

Our backdrops will include a 2” jute webbing with grommets across the top, hemmed sides, and a small pipe pocket across the bottom. Ties are optional ($25 fee to include them).

The cost of our custom backdrops really depends on a few factors including size, speed at which you need it completed, and the complexity of the design. Most of our 18×42 custom backdrops are priced at $3000 and up. For larger backdrops, 20×42, the prices begin at $3500. 

To start the process of getting your custom backdrop underway, we offer a free quote and then will start work once we have received a 50% down payment on the work to be completed. 

Talk to our team about starting your custom backdrop and see how it can positively impact your next performance.